Conversion of the arthrodesed hip to a total hip arthroplasty. Indications and limitations.

Arthrodesis of the hip is thought to achieve satisfactory clinical and functional results in the adult despite the loss of articular mobility involved (Santori et al., 1986; Russel, 1987; Weber, 1987). Over the long term, however, most patients develop secondary degenerative arthritis in the spine, contralateral hip, and knees due to overloading. The deteriorating condition of these joints eventually causes the onset of pain, which often requires further intervention. Surgery on these joints may yield satisfactory short-term results, but these will not last if the arthrodesed hip is not converted to total hip arthroplasty either prior to or at the same time as such operations.